Today’s Meditation

Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

-Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

“Mom, come here! Mom!”

The frantic cries of a fouryear old wake me in the darkness. Bleary-eyed, I hurry to our son’s room. He’s had a bad dream, and now he can’t sleep. Speaking softly, I try to ease his fears. Then I lie on the floor beside his bed until he is resting peacefully once more.

I can empathize with my son. I know about not sleeping. My mind races with worries of the day, struggles with my faith, concerns about my family, anxiety about what might happen. These concerns rob me of peace and rest. Only through God’s word have I begun to release my anxieties.

Like my son, I seek words of reassurance, and I want to know that my loving parent — my heavenly Father — is by my side. Psalm 23 and Joshua 1:9 remind me that God is with me, leading me, even in the darkest hour. When my soul cries out in the darkness, God’s words comfort me and help me to let go of my fears. I can wake in the morning refreshed.

Jody Suiter

(Kansas, USA)

Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your holy word and for your promise to be with us always. Hear our cries, and grant us peace and needed rest. In Jesus’ name. Amen.